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School of Education - George Mason University

Upcoming Infosession

Completion of this programs qualifies for the IB advanced certificate in leadership research. The IB advanced certificate in leadership research provides a more profound understanding of leadership responsibilities and capabilities through rigorous investigative work. It includes research within IB leadership contexts as well as deep reflection on participants’ own leadership practice.

Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates are interested in pursuing leadership positions in IB international school settings and are:

  • Educators seeking the IB's advanced certificate in teaching and learning research should apply. Educators holding a bachelor's degree with or without a master's degree may apply for the full master's degree program, which includes 12 credits of core education courses and 18 credits of IB courses chosen with support from a Mason advisor. This is not an initial licensure program.
  • invested in improving instruction and student achievement;
  • self-directed and focused on connecting theory to practice;
  • prepared to engage in scholarly and professional dialogue through collaboration;
  • committed to life-long learning;
  • willing to embrace a disposition for advocacy, integrity, intellectual curiosity, and responsibility for one’s own learning.

Why Mason?

  • Mason is proud to have been the first university in North America to offer graduate teacher education programs approved and accredited by the IB. Mason is also uniquely able to leverage our close physical proximity to the IB Global Centre, which is located in Washington, D.C.
  • Mason’s Education Leadership Program is supported by a large faculty comprised of professors with impressive backgrounds as researchers and current and former school and district leaders. Each has a genuine interest in developing your potential to positively impact PK–12 student learning.
  • A selective admissions process means you’ll learn alongside colleagues who are experienced, high-performing educators. Your fellow students will become part of a professional network that lasts a lifetime.
  • The program is nationally recognized by the Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Preparation, and all coursework is aligned with the National Educational Leadership Preparation Program Recognition Standards.
  • The program is carefully structured for an online format and designed to fit a busy life, with 1–2 courses offered online each semester. This allows for timely completion, with most students earning a master’s degree within two years.
  • Mason is a great value, with in-state graduate tuition among the lowest of comparable institutions.

Program Format and Requirements

  • Classes are offered entirely online.
  • Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience working or teaching in an IB school or prior experience working in an IB school; if a candidate does not have IB current or prior experience, a candidate must have access to IB schools for fieldwork opportunity.
  • One recommendation should be from a current supervisor and the other from a professional colleague.

Careers in Education Leadership

  • head of school
  • assistant head of school
  • dean
  • athletic director
  • activities director